The device which does the conversion of a quantity that has continuous changes (usually of voltage) into numbers that approximate those changes.
DC
Abbreviation for direct current.
Brooks BA 71 Capsule
1) The variable capacitor section of a condenser microphone.
2) In other types of microphones, the part of the microphone that includes the diaphragm and the active element.
Balanced
1) Having a pleasing amount of low frequencies compared to mid-range frequencies and high frequencies. 2) Having a pleasing mixture of the various instrument levels in an audio recording. 3) Having a fairly equal level in each of the stereo channels. 4) A method of interconnecting electronic gear using three-conductor cables.
Brooks Speakers Line Out (Line Output)
Any output that sends out a line level signal, such as the output of a console that feeds a recorder.
Foot (Foot Drum)
Another name for Bass Drum (the largest drum in the Drum Kit which puts out bass frequencies and is played with a foot pedal).
Compressor
A signal processing device that does not allow as much fluctuation in the level of the signal above a certain adjustable or fixed level.
In-Line Console
A console with modules that have controls for all console sections in one long strip.
Monday, May 31, 2021
Sunday, May 30, 2021
Brooks Cinema NZ 60 Imaging
To make a representation or imitation of the original sonic event.
Head
1) In tape recording, the transducer (energy converter) that changes the audio energy from electrical energy to magnetic energy and back; also the devices that apply magnetism to the recording tape for other purposes such as in the erase head.
2) The part of a device that immediately includes the transducer to change sound or audio signals from one energy form to another.
Brooks BA 71 Full Step
A change in pitch that occurs when moving up or down two piano keys
Axis
A line around which a device operates. Example: In a microphone, this would be an imaginary line coming out from the front of the microphone in the direction of motion of the diaphragm.
Brooks Cinema RM 909 Fidelity
The recording or reproduction quality.
Bridge
The bridge assembly, or just "bridge" is an area on the face of the guitar where the string meet or are connected to the face.
Frequency
The number of cycles of a waveform occurring in a second.
Line Level
1) An amplified signal level put out by an amplifier and used as the normal level that runs through the interconnecting cables in a control room.
2) A low level signal such as the signal in a guitar cord. Most parts of a PA require a line level signal. Remember, however, that speaker outputs are not line level. Plugging speaker outs into line ins will result in damage to the equipment
Head
1) In tape recording, the transducer (energy converter) that changes the audio energy from electrical energy to magnetic energy and back; also the devices that apply magnetism to the recording tape for other purposes such as in the erase head.
2) The part of a device that immediately includes the transducer to change sound or audio signals from one energy form to another.
Brooks BA 71 Full Step
A change in pitch that occurs when moving up or down two piano keys
Axis
A line around which a device operates. Example: In a microphone, this would be an imaginary line coming out from the front of the microphone in the direction of motion of the diaphragm.
Brooks Cinema RM 909 Fidelity
The recording or reproduction quality.
Bridge
The bridge assembly, or just "bridge" is an area on the face of the guitar where the string meet or are connected to the face.
Frequency
The number of cycles of a waveform occurring in a second.
Line Level
1) An amplified signal level put out by an amplifier and used as the normal level that runs through the interconnecting cables in a control room.
2) A low level signal such as the signal in a guitar cord. Most parts of a PA require a line level signal. Remember, however, that speaker outputs are not line level. Plugging speaker outs into line ins will result in damage to the equipment
Saturday, May 29, 2021
Brooks QS 70 Face
The front or body of the guitar.
House Sync
A synchronization signal such as SMPTE time code that is used by all recorders in the control room.
Brooks SS 81 Instrument Amplifier
A device that has a power amplifier and speaker in a case (or in separate cases) to reproduce the signal put out by an electric instrument (such as an electric guitar) and to allow the instrument to be heard.
Editing
1) Changing the sequence of a recording by cutting the recording tape and putting the pieces together in the new sequence with splicing tape.
2) Punching in and then punching out on one or more tracks of a multitrack tape recorder to replace previously recorded performances.
3) Changing the sequence of a digital recording's playback by computer program.
Brooks Cinema KP 30 Bottom
The bass frequencies (as in "needs more bottom end").
Frequency Shift Key / FSK
The full name for FSK (A simple clock signal that can be used to run a sequencer in time with an audio tape).
Hall Program
A setting of a digital delay/reverb effects unit that approximates concert halls. Hall programs are characterized by pre-delay of up to 25 ms.
In-Line Console
A console with modules that have controls for all console sections in one long strip.
House Sync
A synchronization signal such as SMPTE time code that is used by all recorders in the control room.
Brooks SS 81 Instrument Amplifier
A device that has a power amplifier and speaker in a case (or in separate cases) to reproduce the signal put out by an electric instrument (such as an electric guitar) and to allow the instrument to be heard.
Editing
1) Changing the sequence of a recording by cutting the recording tape and putting the pieces together in the new sequence with splicing tape.
2) Punching in and then punching out on one or more tracks of a multitrack tape recorder to replace previously recorded performances.
3) Changing the sequence of a digital recording's playback by computer program.
Brooks Cinema KP 30 Bottom
The bass frequencies (as in "needs more bottom end").
Frequency Shift Key / FSK
The full name for FSK (A simple clock signal that can be used to run a sequencer in time with an audio tape).
Hall Program
A setting of a digital delay/reverb effects unit that approximates concert halls. Hall programs are characterized by pre-delay of up to 25 ms.
In-Line Console
A console with modules that have controls for all console sections in one long strip.
Friday, May 28, 2021
Brooks Cinema Series Diffraction
The breaking up of a sound wave caused by some type of mechanical interference such as a cabinet edge, grill frame, or other similar object.
Flat
1) Lower in musical pitch.
2) A slang term used to describe the sensitivity to frequency of a microphone, amplifier, etc., as being even at all frequencies, usually within 2 dB.
3) Refers to the frequencies on the EQ when they are arranged in centred neutral positions.
Brooks GS 15 Diaphragm
A thin flexible membrane or cone that vibrates in response to electrical signals to produce sound waves. Distortion is usually referred to in terms of total harmonic distortion (THD) which is the percentage of unwanted harmonics of the drive signal present with the wanted signal. Generally used to mean any unwanted change introduced by the device under question.
Distortion
Usually undesirable result of overloading sound equipment. Reducing the levels can remedy the situation.
Brooks QS 70 Fidelity
The recording or reproduction quality.
kHz
An Abbreviation of kilo-Hertz.
Electric Instrument
Any musical instrument that puts out an electrical signal rather than an acoustic sound.
Alternating Current
Electric current which flows back and forth in a circuit.
Flat
1) Lower in musical pitch.
2) A slang term used to describe the sensitivity to frequency of a microphone, amplifier, etc., as being even at all frequencies, usually within 2 dB.
3) Refers to the frequencies on the EQ when they are arranged in centred neutral positions.
Brooks GS 15 Diaphragm
A thin flexible membrane or cone that vibrates in response to electrical signals to produce sound waves. Distortion is usually referred to in terms of total harmonic distortion (THD) which is the percentage of unwanted harmonics of the drive signal present with the wanted signal. Generally used to mean any unwanted change introduced by the device under question.
Distortion
Usually undesirable result of overloading sound equipment. Reducing the levels can remedy the situation.
Brooks QS 70 Fidelity
The recording or reproduction quality.
kHz
An Abbreviation of kilo-Hertz.
Electric Instrument
Any musical instrument that puts out an electrical signal rather than an acoustic sound.
Alternating Current
Electric current which flows back and forth in a circuit.
Thursday, May 27, 2021
Brooks GT 44 Hi-Z
An abbreviation of the term High Impedance (Impedance of 5000 or more ohms).
A/D
An abbreviation of Analog to Digital Conversion (the conversion of a quantity that has continuous changes into numbers that approximate those changes), or Analog to Digital Converter.
Brooks Speakers Digital Recording
1) ADAM : (Akai Digital Audio Multitrack). 12 track recording onto Video 8 tape. 16 bit, 44.1 or 48 kHz sampling rate.
2) DAT (Digital Audio Tape) Cassette-like system which has much higher quality than standard audio cassettes. Widely used in gathering sound effects, for news gathering, and for playback of music.
3) DCC (Digital Compact Cassette) Rival to DAT which also plays standard audio cassettes.
4) MiniDisc : Uses computer disk technology, rather than tape. A laser heats an area of magnetic disk which is then written to by a magnetic head. When cooled, the magnetic information is read from the disk by laser. Tracks can be named, and are instant start. Very theatre-friendly system.
5) Direct to Disk : Uses the hard disk present in most PCs as the recording medium.
Insert
1) A punch in of the all of the tracks being recorded in a recording session.
2) On Solid State Logic consoles, placing an outboard piece of gear in the channel by patching and activating a switch.
Brooks TM-22 Clipping
Distortion of a signal by its being chopped off. An overload problem caused by pushing an amplifier beyond its capabilities. The flat-topped signal has high levels of harmonic distortion which creates heat in a loudspeaker and is the major cause of loudspeaker component failure.
Flat
1) Lower in musical pitch.
2) A slang term used to describe the sensitivity to frequency of a microphone, amplifier, etc., as being even at all frequencies, usually within 2 dB.
3) Refers to the frequencies on the EQ when they are arranged in centred neutral positions.
Cycles Per Second
A unit used in the measure of frequency, equivalent to Hertz. Cycles Per Second is an outdated term replaced by Hertz in 1948.
Input Impedance
The opposition to current flow by the first circuits of a device.
A/D
An abbreviation of Analog to Digital Conversion (the conversion of a quantity that has continuous changes into numbers that approximate those changes), or Analog to Digital Converter.
Brooks Speakers Digital Recording
1) ADAM : (Akai Digital Audio Multitrack). 12 track recording onto Video 8 tape. 16 bit, 44.1 or 48 kHz sampling rate.
2) DAT (Digital Audio Tape) Cassette-like system which has much higher quality than standard audio cassettes. Widely used in gathering sound effects, for news gathering, and for playback of music.
3) DCC (Digital Compact Cassette) Rival to DAT which also plays standard audio cassettes.
4) MiniDisc : Uses computer disk technology, rather than tape. A laser heats an area of magnetic disk which is then written to by a magnetic head. When cooled, the magnetic information is read from the disk by laser. Tracks can be named, and are instant start. Very theatre-friendly system.
5) Direct to Disk : Uses the hard disk present in most PCs as the recording medium.
Insert
1) A punch in of the all of the tracks being recorded in a recording session.
2) On Solid State Logic consoles, placing an outboard piece of gear in the channel by patching and activating a switch.
Brooks TM-22 Clipping
Distortion of a signal by its being chopped off. An overload problem caused by pushing an amplifier beyond its capabilities. The flat-topped signal has high levels of harmonic distortion which creates heat in a loudspeaker and is the major cause of loudspeaker component failure.
Flat
1) Lower in musical pitch.
2) A slang term used to describe the sensitivity to frequency of a microphone, amplifier, etc., as being even at all frequencies, usually within 2 dB.
3) Refers to the frequencies on the EQ when they are arranged in centred neutral positions.
Cycles Per Second
A unit used in the measure of frequency, equivalent to Hertz. Cycles Per Second is an outdated term replaced by Hertz in 1948.
Input Impedance
The opposition to current flow by the first circuits of a device.
Wednesday, May 26, 2021
Brooks TM-22 Crosstalk
Leakage of an audio signal into a channel that iris not intended to be in, from an adjacent or nearby channel.
Group
1) A number of channels or faders that can be controlled by one Master VCA slide.
2) A shortening of the term Recording Group (a buss or the signal present on a buss).
Brooks Cinema TX 509 Acoustic/Acoustical
Having to do with sound that can be heard by the ears.
AcousticsThe behaviour of sound and its study. The acoustics of a room depend on its size and shape and the amount and position of sound-absorbing and reflecting material.
Driver
See transducer. Dynamic Range �" The range between the quietest and the loudest sounds a device can handle (often quoted in dB).
Brooks Cinema xm 808 A/D
An abbreviation of Analog to Digital Conversion (the conversion of a quantity that has continuous changes into numbers that approximate those changes), or Analog to Digital Converter.
Light Emitting Diode
A light that allows current to flow in one direction only and emits light whenever a voltage of a certain level or beyond is applied to it.
Auxiliary Output or Send
An additional output from a sound desk that can be used for foldback or monitoring without tying up the main outputs. Each input channel will have a path to the Aux buss. Also used for feeding a signal to an effects processor. See Auxiliary Return.
Electric Instrument
Any musical instrument that puts out an electrical signal rather than an acoustic sound.
Group
1) A number of channels or faders that can be controlled by one Master VCA slide.
2) A shortening of the term Recording Group (a buss or the signal present on a buss).
Brooks Cinema TX 509 Acoustic/Acoustical
Having to do with sound that can be heard by the ears.
AcousticsThe behaviour of sound and its study. The acoustics of a room depend on its size and shape and the amount and position of sound-absorbing and reflecting material.
Driver
See transducer. Dynamic Range �" The range between the quietest and the loudest sounds a device can handle (often quoted in dB).
Brooks Cinema xm 808 A/D
An abbreviation of Analog to Digital Conversion (the conversion of a quantity that has continuous changes into numbers that approximate those changes), or Analog to Digital Converter.
Light Emitting Diode
A light that allows current to flow in one direction only and emits light whenever a voltage of a certain level or beyond is applied to it.
Auxiliary Output or Send
An additional output from a sound desk that can be used for foldback or monitoring without tying up the main outputs. Each input channel will have a path to the Aux buss. Also used for feeding a signal to an effects processor. See Auxiliary Return.
Electric Instrument
Any musical instrument that puts out an electrical signal rather than an acoustic sound.
Tuesday, May 25, 2021
Brooks BA 71 Editing
1) Changing the sequence of a recording by cutting the recording tape and putting the pieces together in the new sequence with splicing tape.
2) Punching in and then punching out on one or more tracks of a multitrack tape recorder to replace previously recorded performances.
3) Changing the sequence of a digital recording's playback by computer program.
Controller
1) In MIDI, a device that generates a MIDI signal to control synthesizers, sound modules or sample playback units.
2) A remote control unit for a multitrack tape machine which controls transport functions as well as monitor selection switching functions and record ready/safe status of each track.
3) Any device generating a control voltage or signal fed to another device's control input.
Brooks SS 81 Guitar Controller
An electric guitar or device played like an electric guitar that puts out MIDI signals that can be used to control synthesizers and sound modules.
Linear
The condition of obtaining a change at the output of the device which is proportional to the change occurring at the input.
Brooks Cinema xm 808 Error Detection
The process of discovery that sonic information bits have been lost in digital audio.
Diffraction
The breaking up of a sound wave caused by some type of mechanical interference such as a cabinet edge, grill frame, or other similar object.
Full Range
Describes a sound which covers all audible frequency ranges. As in "full range speaker cabinets."
Cable, 1/4 inch
An unbalanced cable most often used for instruments and patch cords. Commonly referred to as "guitar cords".
2) Punching in and then punching out on one or more tracks of a multitrack tape recorder to replace previously recorded performances.
3) Changing the sequence of a digital recording's playback by computer program.
Controller
1) In MIDI, a device that generates a MIDI signal to control synthesizers, sound modules or sample playback units.
2) A remote control unit for a multitrack tape machine which controls transport functions as well as monitor selection switching functions and record ready/safe status of each track.
3) Any device generating a control voltage or signal fed to another device's control input.
Brooks SS 81 Guitar Controller
An electric guitar or device played like an electric guitar that puts out MIDI signals that can be used to control synthesizers and sound modules.
Linear
The condition of obtaining a change at the output of the device which is proportional to the change occurring at the input.
Brooks Cinema xm 808 Error Detection
The process of discovery that sonic information bits have been lost in digital audio.
Diffraction
The breaking up of a sound wave caused by some type of mechanical interference such as a cabinet edge, grill frame, or other similar object.
Full Range
Describes a sound which covers all audible frequency ranges. As in "full range speaker cabinets."
Cable, 1/4 inch
An unbalanced cable most often used for instruments and patch cords. Commonly referred to as "guitar cords".
Monday, May 24, 2021
Brooks Cinema XR 607 Crossover
1) A route leading from one side of the stage to the other, out of the audiences view.
2) An electronic filter in a sound system that routes sound of the correct frequency to the correct part of the speaker system. Different speakers handle high frequencies (tweeters) and low frequencies (woofers). Sometimes known as a crossover network. An active crossover splits the signal from the mixing desk into high, mid and low frequencies which are then sent to three separate amplifiers.
3) An electrical circuit that divides a full bandwidth signal into the desired frequency bands for the loudspeaker components.
Keyboard
1) Any musical instrument controlled by pressing a key.
2) The part of the computer that has the keys.
Brooks KS-55 Circuit
1) One complete path of electric current.
2) Similar to definition 1, but including all paths and components to accomplish one function in a device.
Buss (Bus)
A wire carrying signals to some place, usually fed from several sources.
Brooks SS 81 Foot Switch
A switch placed on the floor and pressed by a musician to do various functions.
Electricity
Electrical current (the amount of electron charge passing a point in a conductor per unit of time) or voltage (the force pushing electrons to obtain electrical current).
Insulator
A substance such as glass, air, plastic, etc., that will (for all practical purposes) not conduct electricity.
A/D
An abbreviation of Analog to Digital Conversion (the conversion of a quantity that has continuous changes into numbers that approximate those changes), or Analog to Digital Converter.
2) An electronic filter in a sound system that routes sound of the correct frequency to the correct part of the speaker system. Different speakers handle high frequencies (tweeters) and low frequencies (woofers). Sometimes known as a crossover network. An active crossover splits the signal from the mixing desk into high, mid and low frequencies which are then sent to three separate amplifiers.
3) An electrical circuit that divides a full bandwidth signal into the desired frequency bands for the loudspeaker components.
Keyboard
1) Any musical instrument controlled by pressing a key.
2) The part of the computer that has the keys.
Brooks KS-55 Circuit
1) One complete path of electric current.
2) Similar to definition 1, but including all paths and components to accomplish one function in a device.
Buss (Bus)
A wire carrying signals to some place, usually fed from several sources.
Brooks SS 81 Foot Switch
A switch placed on the floor and pressed by a musician to do various functions.
Electricity
Electrical current (the amount of electron charge passing a point in a conductor per unit of time) or voltage (the force pushing electrons to obtain electrical current).
Insulator
A substance such as glass, air, plastic, etc., that will (for all practical purposes) not conduct electricity.
A/D
An abbreviation of Analog to Digital Conversion (the conversion of a quantity that has continuous changes into numbers that approximate those changes), or Analog to Digital Converter.
Sunday, May 23, 2021
Brooks M 44 Limiter
A device which reduces gain when the input voltage exceeds a certain level.
Floor
1) An alternate tam meaning Range (a limit on the amount the signal is reduced when the input signal is low by an expander or gate).
2) A shortening of the term Noise Floor (the level of the noise).
Brooks XT 20 Frequency Shift Key / FSK
The full name for FSK (A simple clock signal that can be used to run a sequencer in time with an audio tape).
Line Input
An input designed to take a line level signal.
Brooks TM-22 Condenser Mic (Capacitor Mic)
A microphone that uses the varying capacitance between two plates with a voltage applied across them to convert sound to electrical pulses. Condenser microphones need a power supply to provide the voltage across the plates, which may be provided by a battery within the case of the microphone, or it may be provided from an external phantom power supply. A condenser mic is more sensitive and has a faster reaction to percussive sounds than a Dynamic mic and produces a more even response. See Electret Mic.
Bouncing
Alternate name for Ping-Ponging (playing several tacks with sync playback through a console to mix them together and record them on an open track).
Headroom
1) The level difference (in dB) between normal operating level and clipping level in an amplifier or audio device.
2) A similar level difference between normal tape operating level and the level where the distortion would be 3%.
3) The difference, in decibels, between the peak and RMS levels in program material.
Boundary Mic
A microphone mounted on a flat plate that acts as a reflective surface directing sound into the mic capsule. Used for general pick-up over a large area. See PCC, PZM.
Floor
1) An alternate tam meaning Range (a limit on the amount the signal is reduced when the input signal is low by an expander or gate).
2) A shortening of the term Noise Floor (the level of the noise).
Brooks XT 20 Frequency Shift Key / FSK
The full name for FSK (A simple clock signal that can be used to run a sequencer in time with an audio tape).
Line Input
An input designed to take a line level signal.
Brooks TM-22 Condenser Mic (Capacitor Mic)
A microphone that uses the varying capacitance between two plates with a voltage applied across them to convert sound to electrical pulses. Condenser microphones need a power supply to provide the voltage across the plates, which may be provided by a battery within the case of the microphone, or it may be provided from an external phantom power supply. A condenser mic is more sensitive and has a faster reaction to percussive sounds than a Dynamic mic and produces a more even response. See Electret Mic.
Bouncing
Alternate name for Ping-Ponging (playing several tacks with sync playback through a console to mix them together and record them on an open track).
Headroom
1) The level difference (in dB) between normal operating level and clipping level in an amplifier or audio device.
2) A similar level difference between normal tape operating level and the level where the distortion would be 3%.
3) The difference, in decibels, between the peak and RMS levels in program material.
Boundary Mic
A microphone mounted on a flat plate that acts as a reflective surface directing sound into the mic capsule. Used for general pick-up over a large area. See PCC, PZM.
Saturday, May 22, 2021
Brooks GS 15 Face
The front or body of the guitar.
Figure Eight Pattern
Another name for Bi-directional Pattern (microphone pickup pattern picking up best from the front and back of the diaphragm and not picking up from the side of the diaphragm).
Brooks Cinema NZ 60 Bass Roll Off
An electrical network built into some microphones to reduce the amount of output at bass frequencies when close-micing.
Group Faders
The VCA faders of individual channels that are all controlled by a Group Master Fader (a slide control used to send out a control voltage to several VCA faders in individual channels).
Brooks SS 81 Corner Frequency
Same as Cut-Off Frequency (the highest or lowest frequency in the pass band of a filter). (NOUN)
Clicking
Pressing and immediately releasing the switch on a computer's mouse.
Generating Element
The portion of the microphone that actually converts the movement of the diaphragm into electrical current or voltage changes.
FOH (Front of House)
Refers to the speakers that face toward the audience. Also called the "main" speakers.
Figure Eight Pattern
Another name for Bi-directional Pattern (microphone pickup pattern picking up best from the front and back of the diaphragm and not picking up from the side of the diaphragm).
Brooks Cinema NZ 60 Bass Roll Off
An electrical network built into some microphones to reduce the amount of output at bass frequencies when close-micing.
Group Faders
The VCA faders of individual channels that are all controlled by a Group Master Fader (a slide control used to send out a control voltage to several VCA faders in individual channels).
Brooks SS 81 Corner Frequency
Same as Cut-Off Frequency (the highest or lowest frequency in the pass band of a filter). (NOUN)
Clicking
Pressing and immediately releasing the switch on a computer's mouse.
Generating Element
The portion of the microphone that actually converts the movement of the diaphragm into electrical current or voltage changes.
FOH (Front of House)
Refers to the speakers that face toward the audience. Also called the "main" speakers.
Friday, May 21, 2021
Brooks XB 22 Alternating Current
Electric current which flows back and forth in a circuit.
Fat
Having more than a normal amount of signal strength at low frequencies or having more sound than normal (by use of compression or delay).
Brooks KM 77 Bi-Amplification
1) A way of optimizing the efficiency of a speaker system by separately amplifying the High Frequency (HF) and Low Frequency (LF) portions of the sound signal and sending them down two pairs of cables to the speaker. Multipin Speakon connectors have been developed to do this.
2)The process of having of having low-frequency speakers and high-frequency speakers driven by separate amplifiers.
Limiter
A device which reduces gain when the input voltage exceeds a certain level.
Brooks GT 44 ADAT
A trademark of Alesis Corporation designating its modular digital multitrack recording system released in early 1993.
Condenser Mic (Capacitor Mic)
A microphone that uses the varying capacitance between two plates with a voltage applied across them to convert sound to electrical pulses. Condenser microphones need a power supply to provide the voltage across the plates, which may be provided by a battery within the case of the microphone, or it may be provided from an external phantom power supply. A condenser mic is more sensitive and has a faster reaction to percussive sounds than a Dynamic mic and produces a more even response. See Electret Mic.
Cue Send Control
A control that will adjust the amount of signal sent to a cue buss from a console channel.
ID
An index signal (digital data that gives the machine information of where selections start, their selection number, etc.) on a DAT or CD.
Fat
Having more than a normal amount of signal strength at low frequencies or having more sound than normal (by use of compression or delay).
Brooks KM 77 Bi-Amplification
1) A way of optimizing the efficiency of a speaker system by separately amplifying the High Frequency (HF) and Low Frequency (LF) portions of the sound signal and sending them down two pairs of cables to the speaker. Multipin Speakon connectors have been developed to do this.
2)The process of having of having low-frequency speakers and high-frequency speakers driven by separate amplifiers.
Limiter
A device which reduces gain when the input voltage exceeds a certain level.
Brooks GT 44 ADAT
A trademark of Alesis Corporation designating its modular digital multitrack recording system released in early 1993.
Condenser Mic (Capacitor Mic)
A microphone that uses the varying capacitance between two plates with a voltage applied across them to convert sound to electrical pulses. Condenser microphones need a power supply to provide the voltage across the plates, which may be provided by a battery within the case of the microphone, or it may be provided from an external phantom power supply. A condenser mic is more sensitive and has a faster reaction to percussive sounds than a Dynamic mic and produces a more even response. See Electret Mic.
Cue Send Control
A control that will adjust the amount of signal sent to a cue buss from a console channel.
ID
An index signal (digital data that gives the machine information of where selections start, their selection number, etc.) on a DAT or CD.
Thursday, May 20, 2021
Brooks GS 15 Channels
These are divided into two separate categories. Input channels are those channels coming into the soundboard such as microphones and direct lines. Output channels are those leaving the board such as monitor and main outputs.
Corner Frequency
Same as Cut-Off Frequency (the highest or lowest frequency in the pass band of a filter). (NOUN)
Brooks XB 22 Group
1) A number of channels or faders that can be controlled by one Master VCA slide.
2) A shortening of the term Recording Group (a buss or the signal present on a buss).
Generating Element
The portion of the microphone that actually converts the movement of the diaphragm into electrical current or voltage changes.
Brooks Cinema ZL 44 Input Impedance
The opposition to current flow by the first circuits of a device.
Harmonics
Integer multiples of a fundamental frequency, the fundamental itself being the first harmonic, its first overtone the second harmonic, etc. Attributing to instruments, voices, etc. their distinctive timbre.
Linearity
The extent to which any signal handling process is accomplished without amplitude distortion.
Boom
1) A hand-held, telescoping pole used to hold the microphone in recording dialogue in film production.
2) A telescoping support arm that is attached to a microphone stand and which holds the microphone. 3) Loosely, a boomstand.
Corner Frequency
Same as Cut-Off Frequency (the highest or lowest frequency in the pass band of a filter). (NOUN)
Brooks XB 22 Group
1) A number of channels or faders that can be controlled by one Master VCA slide.
2) A shortening of the term Recording Group (a buss or the signal present on a buss).
Generating Element
The portion of the microphone that actually converts the movement of the diaphragm into electrical current or voltage changes.
Brooks Cinema ZL 44 Input Impedance
The opposition to current flow by the first circuits of a device.
Harmonics
Integer multiples of a fundamental frequency, the fundamental itself being the first harmonic, its first overtone the second harmonic, etc. Attributing to instruments, voices, etc. their distinctive timbre.
Linearity
The extent to which any signal handling process is accomplished without amplitude distortion.
Boom
1) A hand-held, telescoping pole used to hold the microphone in recording dialogue in film production.
2) A telescoping support arm that is attached to a microphone stand and which holds the microphone. 3) Loosely, a boomstand.
Wednesday, May 19, 2021
Brooks SS 81 Driver
See transducer. Dynamic Range �" The range between the quietest and the loudest sounds a device can handle (often quoted in dB).
Comb Filter
1) The frequency response achieved by mixing a direct signal with a delayed signal of equal strength especially at short delays.
2) Loosely used to also describe effects that can be achieved with comb filtering as part of the processing.
Brooks Cinema ZL 44 First Generation
A descriptive term meaning original (as opposed to a copy).
Line
1) Short for line level.
2) A cable.
Brooks Cinema Series Icon
A visual picture or symbol on a computer screen that represents a file, program or disc that can be used.
Edit
A switch that does different things depending on the operational mode that the machine is in:
1) If a computer-controlled transport is in "Stop," pushing the "Edit" switch deactivates the computer-controlled tension system and allows the reels to be moved by hand to find the exact spot desired on the tape.
2) If the machine is in "Play", the "Edit" switch makes the take-up reel cease taking up the tape and it falls to the floor.
3) If the machine is in a fast-wind mode, the tape lifters are defeated so the tape is in contact with the reproduce head and the engineer can hear where the selections begin and end.
Audio
Most often referring to electrical signals resulting from the sound pressure wave being converted into electrical energy.
Central Processing Unit
1) The main "brain" chip of a computer that performs the calculations and execution of instructions.
2) The main housing of a computer that contains the "brain" chip as opposed to other pieces of the computer system such as keyboards, monitors, etc.
Comb Filter
1) The frequency response achieved by mixing a direct signal with a delayed signal of equal strength especially at short delays.
2) Loosely used to also describe effects that can be achieved with comb filtering as part of the processing.
Brooks Cinema ZL 44 First Generation
A descriptive term meaning original (as opposed to a copy).
Line
1) Short for line level.
2) A cable.
Brooks Cinema Series Icon
A visual picture or symbol on a computer screen that represents a file, program or disc that can be used.
Edit
A switch that does different things depending on the operational mode that the machine is in:
1) If a computer-controlled transport is in "Stop," pushing the "Edit" switch deactivates the computer-controlled tension system and allows the reels to be moved by hand to find the exact spot desired on the tape.
2) If the machine is in "Play", the "Edit" switch makes the take-up reel cease taking up the tape and it falls to the floor.
3) If the machine is in a fast-wind mode, the tape lifters are defeated so the tape is in contact with the reproduce head and the engineer can hear where the selections begin and end.
Audio
Most often referring to electrical signals resulting from the sound pressure wave being converted into electrical energy.
Central Processing Unit
1) The main "brain" chip of a computer that performs the calculations and execution of instructions.
2) The main housing of a computer that contains the "brain" chip as opposed to other pieces of the computer system such as keyboards, monitors, etc.
Tuesday, May 18, 2021
Brooks KS-55 Line Input
An input designed to take a line level signal.
Frequency
Practically speaking, high frequency means high pitch and low frequency means low pitch.
Brooks Cinema TZ 505 kHz
An Abbreviation of kilo-Hertz.
Inductor
A device designed primarily to introduce inductance into an electric circuit. Sometimes called a choke or coil.
Brooks Cinema RM 909 Engineer
1) A technician in charge of a recording session; Also called Recording Engineer.
2) A person with an engineering degree.
3) A person with sufficient experience in the field to be equivalent to the education one would receive earning an engineering degree.
Crossover, Passive
Used inside of full range speaker cabinets to separate highs, mids, and lows and send them to their respective speakers within the each cabinet. These are not as efficient as active crossovers because they require all frequencies to draw from the same source of amplification.
Jack
1) Anywhere you plug something in.
2) Segmented audio connector. Mono Jacks have two connections �" tip and sleeve, and are unbalanced. Stereo jacks have three connections �" tip, ring and sleeve. B-type jacks (also known as Bantam jacks) were originally designed for use in telephone exchanges and provide a high quality (and expensive) connection in jackfields. A-type jacks are cheaper and more common, but more fragile. A type jacks are available in 2 sizes : quarter inch and eighth inch.
3) A connector mounted on the case of a device or on a panel.
Active/Inactive Microphones
Scientific definitions aside, active microphones generally sound better than inactive ones, but they generally cost more. They also require the use of either a battery or phantom power while inactive mics need only be plugged into the mic cord in order to work. In most playing situations, the subtle improvement in sound quality from an active mic isn't worth the extra cost and hassle. One possible exception it the headset mic. Put simply, inactive headset mics just plain suck. Active headset mics put out a much stronger signal and feed back much less.
Frequency
Practically speaking, high frequency means high pitch and low frequency means low pitch.
Brooks Cinema TZ 505 kHz
An Abbreviation of kilo-Hertz.
Inductor
A device designed primarily to introduce inductance into an electric circuit. Sometimes called a choke or coil.
Brooks Cinema RM 909 Engineer
1) A technician in charge of a recording session; Also called Recording Engineer.
2) A person with an engineering degree.
3) A person with sufficient experience in the field to be equivalent to the education one would receive earning an engineering degree.
Crossover, Passive
Used inside of full range speaker cabinets to separate highs, mids, and lows and send them to their respective speakers within the each cabinet. These are not as efficient as active crossovers because they require all frequencies to draw from the same source of amplification.
Jack
1) Anywhere you plug something in.
2) Segmented audio connector. Mono Jacks have two connections �" tip and sleeve, and are unbalanced. Stereo jacks have three connections �" tip, ring and sleeve. B-type jacks (also known as Bantam jacks) were originally designed for use in telephone exchanges and provide a high quality (and expensive) connection in jackfields. A-type jacks are cheaper and more common, but more fragile. A type jacks are available in 2 sizes : quarter inch and eighth inch.
3) A connector mounted on the case of a device or on a panel.
Active/Inactive Microphones
Scientific definitions aside, active microphones generally sound better than inactive ones, but they generally cost more. They also require the use of either a battery or phantom power while inactive mics need only be plugged into the mic cord in order to work. In most playing situations, the subtle improvement in sound quality from an active mic isn't worth the extra cost and hassle. One possible exception it the headset mic. Put simply, inactive headset mics just plain suck. Active headset mics put out a much stronger signal and feed back much less.
Monday, May 17, 2021
Brooks TM-22 Key
The control of a dynamics processing device by an external audio signal.
Initialize
To prepare a digital storage medium (like a floppy disk) so that it will accept and store digital information bits.
Brooks QS 70 Cycles Per Second
A unit used in the measure of frequency, equivalent to Hertz. Cycles Per Second is an outdated term replaced by Hertz in 1948.
Bit
The smallest unit of digital information representing a single "0" or 1.
Brooks Cinema xm 808 Console
A set of controls and their housing, which control all signals necessary for recording and mixing.
Echo Send Control
A control to send the signal from the input module to the echo chamber or effects device via the echo buss.
Compressor
1) Effect used to squash the sound together. Used properly, it can take the edge off or your sound. Used improperly, it can take the life right out of your system and make it sound like an MTV mix.
2) A piece of sound processing equipment that ensures all wanted signals are suitably placed between the noise and distortion levels of the recording medium. It evens out the unwanted changes in volume you get with close-miking, and in doing so, adds punch to the sound mix. A Limiter is used to stop a signal from exceeding a preset limit. Beyond this limit, the signal level will not increase, no matter how loud the input becomes. A Limiter is often used to protect speaker systems (and human ears) by preventing a system from becoming too loud.
Crisp
Describes a good clean high midrange sound. It can be good or bad depending on the look on the face of the guy who said it.
Initialize
To prepare a digital storage medium (like a floppy disk) so that it will accept and store digital information bits.
Brooks QS 70 Cycles Per Second
A unit used in the measure of frequency, equivalent to Hertz. Cycles Per Second is an outdated term replaced by Hertz in 1948.
Bit
The smallest unit of digital information representing a single "0" or 1.
Brooks Cinema xm 808 Console
A set of controls and their housing, which control all signals necessary for recording and mixing.
Echo Send Control
A control to send the signal from the input module to the echo chamber or effects device via the echo buss.
Compressor
1) Effect used to squash the sound together. Used properly, it can take the edge off or your sound. Used improperly, it can take the life right out of your system and make it sound like an MTV mix.
2) A piece of sound processing equipment that ensures all wanted signals are suitably placed between the noise and distortion levels of the recording medium. It evens out the unwanted changes in volume you get with close-miking, and in doing so, adds punch to the sound mix. A Limiter is used to stop a signal from exceeding a preset limit. Beyond this limit, the signal level will not increase, no matter how loud the input becomes. A Limiter is often used to protect speaker systems (and human ears) by preventing a system from becoming too loud.
Crisp
Describes a good clean high midrange sound. It can be good or bad depending on the look on the face of the guy who said it.
Sunday, May 16, 2021
Brooks KM 77 Floppy Disk (Floppy Disc)
A round flat object (usually housed in a protective sleeve) coated with material that can be magnetized in a similar manner to tape.
Bouncing
Alternate name for Ping-Ponging (playing several tacks with sync playback through a console to mix them together and record them on an open track).
Brooks TA 60 Gate
A dynamic processing device that turns a channel off or down when the signal drops below a certain level.
Amplifier
A device which increases the amplitude (level) of an electrical signal (making it louder).
Brooks BA 71 Guitar Processor
A unit that will add effects to a direct guitar signal, including a simulated instrument amplifier sound and (often) delay and reverb effects.
Kilo
A prefix meaning 1000.
Chord
Three or more musical pitches sung or played together.
Auxiliary Equipment
Effects devices separate from but working with the recording console.
Bouncing
Alternate name for Ping-Ponging (playing several tacks with sync playback through a console to mix them together and record them on an open track).
Brooks TA 60 Gate
A dynamic processing device that turns a channel off or down when the signal drops below a certain level.
Amplifier
A device which increases the amplitude (level) of an electrical signal (making it louder).
Brooks BA 71 Guitar Processor
A unit that will add effects to a direct guitar signal, including a simulated instrument amplifier sound and (often) delay and reverb effects.
Kilo
A prefix meaning 1000.
Chord
Three or more musical pitches sung or played together.
Auxiliary Equipment
Effects devices separate from but working with the recording console.
Saturday, May 15, 2021
Brooks Cinema Projectors Controller
1) In MIDI, a device that generates a MIDI signal to control synthesizers, sound modules or sample playback units.
2) A remote control unit for a multitrack tape machine which controls transport functions as well as monitor selection switching functions and record ready/safe status of each track.
3) Any device generating a control voltage or signal fed to another device's control input.
Keying Input (Key Input)
An input on a dynamics processing device to control the device by an external audio signal.
Brooks GT 44 Chamber
1) An Echo Chamber (a room designed with very hard, non-parallel surfaces equipped with a speaker and microphone so that when dry signals from the console are fed to the speaker, the microphone will have a reverberation of these signals that can be mixed in with the dry signals at the console).
2) A program in a delay/reverb effects device that simulates the sound of an Echo Chamber.
Level
Sets output volume of individual PA input channels. Usually positioned as sliders at the bottom of the soundboard.
Brooks Cinema KP 30 Driver
See transducer. Dynamic Range �" The range between the quietest and the loudest sounds a device can handle (often quoted in dB).
Echo
1) One distinct repeat of a sound because of the sound reflecting off a surface.
2) Loosely, used to mean reverberation (the continuing of a sound after the source stops emitting it, caused by many discrete echoes closely spaced in time).
Amplitude
The extreme range of a signal. Usually measured from the average to the extreme.
Echo Send Control
A control to send the signal from the input module to the echo chamber or effects device via the echo buss.
2) A remote control unit for a multitrack tape machine which controls transport functions as well as monitor selection switching functions and record ready/safe status of each track.
3) Any device generating a control voltage or signal fed to another device's control input.
Keying Input (Key Input)
An input on a dynamics processing device to control the device by an external audio signal.
Brooks GT 44 Chamber
1) An Echo Chamber (a room designed with very hard, non-parallel surfaces equipped with a speaker and microphone so that when dry signals from the console are fed to the speaker, the microphone will have a reverberation of these signals that can be mixed in with the dry signals at the console).
2) A program in a delay/reverb effects device that simulates the sound of an Echo Chamber.
Level
Sets output volume of individual PA input channels. Usually positioned as sliders at the bottom of the soundboard.
Brooks Cinema KP 30 Driver
See transducer. Dynamic Range �" The range between the quietest and the loudest sounds a device can handle (often quoted in dB).
Echo
1) One distinct repeat of a sound because of the sound reflecting off a surface.
2) Loosely, used to mean reverberation (the continuing of a sound after the source stops emitting it, caused by many discrete echoes closely spaced in time).
Amplitude
The extreme range of a signal. Usually measured from the average to the extreme.
Echo Send Control
A control to send the signal from the input module to the echo chamber or effects device via the echo buss.
Friday, May 14, 2021
Brooks RM 80 Echo Send Control
A control to send the signal from the input module to the echo chamber or effects device via the echo buss.
Gate
A dynamic processing device that turns a channel off or down when the signal drops below a certain level.
Brooks TA 60 A/D
An abbreviation of Analog to Digital Conversion (the conversion of a quantity that has continuous changes into numbers that approximate those changes), or Analog to Digital Converter.
Diffraction
The breaking up of a sound wave caused by some type of mechanical interference such as a cabinet edge, grill frame, or other similar object.
Brooks GS 15 Gain Reduction
The working of a limiter or compressor reducing gain during high-level passages.
Charge
The electrical energy of electrons. The energy is in the form of a force that is considered negative and repels other like forces (other electrons) and attracts opposite (positive) forces.
Crossover Frequency
1) The frequency that is the outer limit of one of the bands of a crossover.
2) In the Lexicon 480L delay/reverberation effects unit, the frequency at which the bass frequency reverb time is in effect rather than the mid frequency reverb time.
Bi-Amplification
1) A way of optimizing the efficiency of a speaker system by separately amplifying the High Frequency (HF) and Low Frequency (LF) portions of the sound signal and sending them down two pairs of cables to the speaker. Multipin Speakon connectors have been developed to do this.
2)The process of having of having low-frequency speakers and high-frequency speakers driven by separate amplifiers.
Gate
A dynamic processing device that turns a channel off or down when the signal drops below a certain level.
Brooks TA 60 A/D
An abbreviation of Analog to Digital Conversion (the conversion of a quantity that has continuous changes into numbers that approximate those changes), or Analog to Digital Converter.
Diffraction
The breaking up of a sound wave caused by some type of mechanical interference such as a cabinet edge, grill frame, or other similar object.
Brooks GS 15 Gain Reduction
The working of a limiter or compressor reducing gain during high-level passages.
Charge
The electrical energy of electrons. The energy is in the form of a force that is considered negative and repels other like forces (other electrons) and attracts opposite (positive) forces.
Crossover Frequency
1) The frequency that is the outer limit of one of the bands of a crossover.
2) In the Lexicon 480L delay/reverberation effects unit, the frequency at which the bass frequency reverb time is in effect rather than the mid frequency reverb time.
Bi-Amplification
1) A way of optimizing the efficiency of a speaker system by separately amplifying the High Frequency (HF) and Low Frequency (LF) portions of the sound signal and sending them down two pairs of cables to the speaker. Multipin Speakon connectors have been developed to do this.
2)The process of having of having low-frequency speakers and high-frequency speakers driven by separate amplifiers.
Thursday, May 13, 2021
Brooks Cinema xm 808 Hum
The 60 Hz power line current accidentally induced or fed into electronic equipment.
Compression Driver
The unit that feeds a sound pressure wave into the throat of a horn (in a horn loudspeaker).
Brooks KS-55 Bottom
The bass frequencies (as in "needs more bottom end").
Coax
Two-conductor cable consisting of one conductor surrounded by a shield.
Brooks Cinema XR 607 Feedback Control
The control on a delay line or delay effects device that controls the amount of feedback.
Auxiliary Equipment
Effects devices separate from but working with the recording console.
AES/EBU
Professional Interface A standard for sending and receiving digital audio adopted by the Audio Engineering Society and the European Broadcast Union.
Ground Lifter
An adapter that takes a three prong power cord and plugs into a two prong outlet, used to disconnect the third (ground) pin of the power outlet. WARNING: It can be VERY DANGEROUS to have no ground connection to the case by using a ground lifter and not grounding the unit by other means.
Compression Driver
The unit that feeds a sound pressure wave into the throat of a horn (in a horn loudspeaker).
Brooks KS-55 Bottom
The bass frequencies (as in "needs more bottom end").
Coax
Two-conductor cable consisting of one conductor surrounded by a shield.
Brooks Cinema XR 607 Feedback Control
The control on a delay line or delay effects device that controls the amount of feedback.
Auxiliary Equipment
Effects devices separate from but working with the recording console.
AES/EBU
Professional Interface A standard for sending and receiving digital audio adopted by the Audio Engineering Society and the European Broadcast Union.
Ground Lifter
An adapter that takes a three prong power cord and plugs into a two prong outlet, used to disconnect the third (ground) pin of the power outlet. WARNING: It can be VERY DANGEROUS to have no ground connection to the case by using a ground lifter and not grounding the unit by other means.
Wednesday, May 12, 2021
Brooks Cinema TZ 505 Electric Current
A more formal term meaning the same as the term Current (the amount of electron charge passing a point in a conductor per unit of time).
A/D
An abbreviation of Analog to Digital Conversion (the conversion of a quantity that has continuous changes into numbers that approximate those changes), or Analog to Digital Converter.
Brooks SS 81 Ambient Micing
Placing a microphone in the reverberant field (where the reverberation is louder than the direct sound) so as to do a separate recording of the ambience or to allow the recording engineer to change the mix of direct to reverberant sound in recording.
Headroom
1) The level difference (in dB) between normal operating level and clipping level in an amplifier or audio device.
2) A similar level difference between normal tape operating level and the level where the distortion would be 3%.
3) The difference, in decibels, between the peak and RMS levels in program material.
Brooks XT 20 Full
A quality of the sound of having all frequencies present, especially the low frequencies.
Interface
Any device that allows one unit to work, drive or communicate with another unit when they cannot do so by just feeding each other often because the units are manufactured by different companies.
Foot Switch
A switch placed on the floor and pressed by a musician to do various functions.
Board
1) Another, less formal, term for Console.
2) A set of controls and their housing which control all signals necessary for recording and for mixing.
3) A slang shortening of the term Keyboard Instrument.
A/D
An abbreviation of Analog to Digital Conversion (the conversion of a quantity that has continuous changes into numbers that approximate those changes), or Analog to Digital Converter.
Brooks SS 81 Ambient Micing
Placing a microphone in the reverberant field (where the reverberation is louder than the direct sound) so as to do a separate recording of the ambience or to allow the recording engineer to change the mix of direct to reverberant sound in recording.
Headroom
1) The level difference (in dB) between normal operating level and clipping level in an amplifier or audio device.
2) A similar level difference between normal tape operating level and the level where the distortion would be 3%.
3) The difference, in decibels, between the peak and RMS levels in program material.
Brooks XT 20 Full
A quality of the sound of having all frequencies present, especially the low frequencies.
Interface
Any device that allows one unit to work, drive or communicate with another unit when they cannot do so by just feeding each other often because the units are manufactured by different companies.
Foot Switch
A switch placed on the floor and pressed by a musician to do various functions.
Board
1) Another, less formal, term for Console.
2) A set of controls and their housing which control all signals necessary for recording and for mixing.
3) A slang shortening of the term Keyboard Instrument.
Tuesday, May 11, 2021
Brooks KM 77 Hearing Limitation
An inability of the ear to hear important characteristics of sound under certain conditions. Characteristics that can be affected include pitch, level, clarity, presence and direction.
Generation
A term used to describe the number of times that the recorded audio signal has been copied.
Brooks Cinema Projectors Bandwidth
1) The range of frequencies over which a tape recorder, amplifier or other audio device is useful. 2) The range of frequencies affected by an equalization setting.
Leakage
Sounds from other instruments and sources that were not intended to be picked up by the microphone.
Brooks KS-55 Figure Eight Pattern
Another name for Bi-directional Pattern (microphone pickup pattern picking up best from the front and back of the diaphragm and not picking up from the side of the diaphragm).
ID
An index signal (digital data that gives the machine information of where selections start, their selection number, etc.) on a DAT or CD.
Assistant Engineer
A less elevated version of the term Second Engineer. Experienced seconds often place microphones, operate tape machines, break down equipment at the session end and keep the paperwork for the session.
Buss (Bus)
A wire carrying signals to some place, usually fed from several sources.
Generation
A term used to describe the number of times that the recorded audio signal has been copied.
Brooks Cinema Projectors Bandwidth
1) The range of frequencies over which a tape recorder, amplifier or other audio device is useful. 2) The range of frequencies affected by an equalization setting.
Leakage
Sounds from other instruments and sources that were not intended to be picked up by the microphone.
Brooks KS-55 Figure Eight Pattern
Another name for Bi-directional Pattern (microphone pickup pattern picking up best from the front and back of the diaphragm and not picking up from the side of the diaphragm).
ID
An index signal (digital data that gives the machine information of where selections start, their selection number, etc.) on a DAT or CD.
Assistant Engineer
A less elevated version of the term Second Engineer. Experienced seconds often place microphones, operate tape machines, break down equipment at the session end and keep the paperwork for the session.
Buss (Bus)
A wire carrying signals to some place, usually fed from several sources.
Monday, May 10, 2021
Brooks TA 60 Condenser
An older term meaning the same thing as Capacitor (an electronic device which is composed of two plates separated by an insulator and can store charge) but sill in common use when referring to a microphone's active element.
Hall
A large building designed for concerts; also called a concert hall.
Brooks Cinema KP 30 Digital Recording
1) ADAM : (Akai Digital Audio Multitrack). 12 track recording onto Video 8 tape. 16 bit, 44.1 or 48 kHz sampling rate.
2) DAT (Digital Audio Tape) Cassette-like system which has much higher quality than standard audio cassettes. Widely used in gathering sound effects, for news gathering, and for playback of music.
3) DCC (Digital Compact Cassette) Rival to DAT which also plays standard audio cassettes.
4) MiniDisc : Uses computer disk technology, rather than tape. A laser heats an area of magnetic disk which is then written to by a magnetic head. When cooled, the magnetic information is read from the disk by laser. Tracks can be named, and are instant start. Very theatre-friendly system.
5) Direct to Disk : Uses the hard disk present in most PCs as the recording medium.
Automation
In consoles, a feature that lets the engineer program control changes (such as fader level) so that upon playback of the multitrack recording these changes happen automatically.
Brooks M 44 ID
An index signal (digital data that gives the machine information of where selections start, their selection number, etc.) on a DAT or CD.
Aux Send
Short for the term Auxiliary Send (a control to adjust the level of the signal sent from the console input channel to the auxiliary equipment through the aux buss.
Images
The squaring of the waveform that happens in the conversion of digital audio bits into analog signals.
Jack Bay
A series of jacks which have connections for most of the inputs and outputs of the equipment in the control room.
Hall
A large building designed for concerts; also called a concert hall.
Brooks Cinema KP 30 Digital Recording
1) ADAM : (Akai Digital Audio Multitrack). 12 track recording onto Video 8 tape. 16 bit, 44.1 or 48 kHz sampling rate.
2) DAT (Digital Audio Tape) Cassette-like system which has much higher quality than standard audio cassettes. Widely used in gathering sound effects, for news gathering, and for playback of music.
3) DCC (Digital Compact Cassette) Rival to DAT which also plays standard audio cassettes.
4) MiniDisc : Uses computer disk technology, rather than tape. A laser heats an area of magnetic disk which is then written to by a magnetic head. When cooled, the magnetic information is read from the disk by laser. Tracks can be named, and are instant start. Very theatre-friendly system.
5) Direct to Disk : Uses the hard disk present in most PCs as the recording medium.
Automation
In consoles, a feature that lets the engineer program control changes (such as fader level) so that upon playback of the multitrack recording these changes happen automatically.
Brooks M 44 ID
An index signal (digital data that gives the machine information of where selections start, their selection number, etc.) on a DAT or CD.
Aux Send
Short for the term Auxiliary Send (a control to adjust the level of the signal sent from the console input channel to the auxiliary equipment through the aux buss.
Images
The squaring of the waveform that happens in the conversion of digital audio bits into analog signals.
Jack Bay
A series of jacks which have connections for most of the inputs and outputs of the equipment in the control room.
Sunday, May 9, 2021
Brooks BA 71 Gate
A dynamic processing device that turns a channel off or down when the signal drops below a certain level.
Board
1) Another, less formal, term for Console.
2) A set of controls and their housing which control all signals necessary for recording and for mixing.
3) A slang shortening of the term Keyboard Instrument.
Brooks Cinema XR 607 Equalizer (Parametric, Graphic)
This is used to filter out and adjust specific frequencies in the PA. This is the part of the PA where you have the most control over the band's overall sound. It is also the number one weapon against feedback.
Bulk Dump
Short for System Exclusive Bulk Dump (a method of transmitting data, such as the internal parameters of a MIDI device to another MIDI device).
Brooks GT 845 Electromagnetic Theory
A statement of the principles behind electromagnetic induction: When a conductor cuts magnetic lines of force, current is induced in that conductor.
Cord (Speaker, Mic, Instrument)
Used to connect a sound system together. Each type of cord is made for a specific purpose and should not be used in place of another type of cord, not even if they look alike. Also see "cable"
Boom
1) A hand-held, telescoping pole used to hold the microphone in recording dialogue in film production.
2) A telescoping support arm that is attached to a microphone stand and which holds the microphone. 3) Loosely, a boomstand.
kHz
An Abbreviation of kilo-Hertz.
Board
1) Another, less formal, term for Console.
2) A set of controls and their housing which control all signals necessary for recording and for mixing.
3) A slang shortening of the term Keyboard Instrument.
Brooks Cinema XR 607 Equalizer (Parametric, Graphic)
This is used to filter out and adjust specific frequencies in the PA. This is the part of the PA where you have the most control over the band's overall sound. It is also the number one weapon against feedback.
Bulk Dump
Short for System Exclusive Bulk Dump (a method of transmitting data, such as the internal parameters of a MIDI device to another MIDI device).
Brooks GT 845 Electromagnetic Theory
A statement of the principles behind electromagnetic induction: When a conductor cuts magnetic lines of force, current is induced in that conductor.
Cord (Speaker, Mic, Instrument)
Used to connect a sound system together. Each type of cord is made for a specific purpose and should not be used in place of another type of cord, not even if they look alike. Also see "cable"
Boom
1) A hand-held, telescoping pole used to hold the microphone in recording dialogue in film production.
2) A telescoping support arm that is attached to a microphone stand and which holds the microphone. 3) Loosely, a boomstand.
kHz
An Abbreviation of kilo-Hertz.
Saturday, May 8, 2021
Brooks KS-55 Input Monitor
A switch position and operational mode of the electronics of a tape machine where the signal at output of the electronics will be the same as the signal coming into the electronics. In this mode, the tape machine's meter will read the input signal.
Effects
Electronic boxes (usually rack mounted) added to a PA system to subtly change and enhance the signals going through it. Examples include; Reverb, Delay, Compressor, Chorus.
Brooks Cinema KP 30 Chorus
Common type of effect that makes sounds fuller and thicker.
Compander
Outboard sound equipment. Combination of a Compressor and an Expander.
Brooks QS 70 Hypercardioid Pattern
A microphone pick up sensitivity pattern where the least sensitive pick up point is more than 90 degrees but less than 150 degrees off axis (usually 120 degrees).
Line Level
1) An amplified signal level put out by an amplifier and used as the normal level that runs through the interconnecting cables in a control room.
2) A low level signal such as the signal in a guitar cord. Most parts of a PA require a line level signal. Remember, however, that speaker outputs are not line level. Plugging speaker outs into line ins will result in damage to the equipment
Cut-off Rate (Slope)
The number of dB that a filter reduces the signal for each octave its frequency past the filter's cut-off frequency (outside of the pass band).
Feed
To send an audio or control signal to.
Effects
Electronic boxes (usually rack mounted) added to a PA system to subtly change and enhance the signals going through it. Examples include; Reverb, Delay, Compressor, Chorus.
Brooks Cinema KP 30 Chorus
Common type of effect that makes sounds fuller and thicker.
Compander
Outboard sound equipment. Combination of a Compressor and an Expander.
Brooks QS 70 Hypercardioid Pattern
A microphone pick up sensitivity pattern where the least sensitive pick up point is more than 90 degrees but less than 150 degrees off axis (usually 120 degrees).
Line Level
1) An amplified signal level put out by an amplifier and used as the normal level that runs through the interconnecting cables in a control room.
2) A low level signal such as the signal in a guitar cord. Most parts of a PA require a line level signal. Remember, however, that speaker outputs are not line level. Plugging speaker outs into line ins will result in damage to the equipment
Cut-off Rate (Slope)
The number of dB that a filter reduces the signal for each octave its frequency past the filter's cut-off frequency (outside of the pass band).
Feed
To send an audio or control signal to.
Friday, May 7, 2021
Brooks Speakers Imaging
To make a representation or imitation of the original sonic event.
Folded Horn
A speaker design where the speaker points back into the cabinet and bounces around finally coming out large ports in the front. It is intended to maximize low frequencies in a relatively small cabinet.
Brooks TM-22 Jack Bay
A series of jacks which have connections for most of the inputs and outputs of the equipment in the control room.
Frequency Shift Key / FSK
The full name for FSK (A simple clock signal that can be used to run a sequencer in time with an audio tape).
Brooks TA 60 Binary
A numbering system based on two. In binary there are two symbols used ("l" and "0").
Gain Control
A device that changes the gain of an amplifier or circuit, often a knob that can be turned or a slide that can be moved up arid down.
Compact Disc, Read Only Memory CDROM
A Compact Disc used to store digital data, such as large programs, that can be read by a computer.
Golden Section
A ratio of height to width to length of a room to achieve "good acoustics" and first recommended by the ancient Greeks. The ratio is approximately the width 1.6 times the height and the length 2.6 times the height
Folded Horn
A speaker design where the speaker points back into the cabinet and bounces around finally coming out large ports in the front. It is intended to maximize low frequencies in a relatively small cabinet.
Brooks TM-22 Jack Bay
A series of jacks which have connections for most of the inputs and outputs of the equipment in the control room.
Frequency Shift Key / FSK
The full name for FSK (A simple clock signal that can be used to run a sequencer in time with an audio tape).
Brooks TA 60 Binary
A numbering system based on two. In binary there are two symbols used ("l" and "0").
Gain Control
A device that changes the gain of an amplifier or circuit, often a knob that can be turned or a slide that can be moved up arid down.
Compact Disc, Read Only Memory CDROM
A Compact Disc used to store digital data, such as large programs, that can be read by a computer.
Golden Section
A ratio of height to width to length of a room to achieve "good acoustics" and first recommended by the ancient Greeks. The ratio is approximately the width 1.6 times the height and the length 2.6 times the height
Thursday, May 6, 2021
Brooks TM-22 Capsule
1) The variable capacitor section of a condenser microphone.
2) In other types of microphones, the part of the microphone that includes the diaphragm and the active element.
Chip
1) A slang term with the same meaning as the term IC (a miniature circuit of many components that is in small, sealed housing with prongs to connect it into equipment).
2) The thread cut away from the master lacquer to make the groove, while disc recording.
Brooks Cinema XR 607 Electromagnetic Induction or Pick Up
The generation of electrical signal in a conductor moving in a magnetic field or being close to a changing magnetic field.
Decibel (dB)
1) Relative measurement for the volume (loudness) of sound. Also used to measure the difference between two voltages, or two currents. See Zero dB.
2) A numerical expression of the relative loudness of a sound. The difference in decibels between two
sounds is ten times the common logarithm of the ratio of their power levels.
Brooks KS-55 Hi-Z
An abbreviation of the term High Impedance (Impedance of 5000 or more ohms).
Close Micing
A technique of placing a microphone close to the sound source (within one foot) in order to pick up mainly the direct sound and to avoid picking up leakage or ambience.
Flat
1) Lower in musical pitch.
2) A slang term used to describe the sensitivity to frequency of a microphone, amplifier, etc., as being even at all frequencies, usually within 2 dB.
3) Refers to the frequencies on the EQ when they are arranged in centred neutral positions.
Joystick
1) A quad pan pot which distributes what percentage of on signal is sent to each of 4 outputs.
2) A control that is separately controlling two functions at one time.
2) In other types of microphones, the part of the microphone that includes the diaphragm and the active element.
Chip
1) A slang term with the same meaning as the term IC (a miniature circuit of many components that is in small, sealed housing with prongs to connect it into equipment).
2) The thread cut away from the master lacquer to make the groove, while disc recording.
Brooks Cinema XR 607 Electromagnetic Induction or Pick Up
The generation of electrical signal in a conductor moving in a magnetic field or being close to a changing magnetic field.
Decibel (dB)
1) Relative measurement for the volume (loudness) of sound. Also used to measure the difference between two voltages, or two currents. See Zero dB.
2) A numerical expression of the relative loudness of a sound. The difference in decibels between two
sounds is ten times the common logarithm of the ratio of their power levels.
Brooks KS-55 Hi-Z
An abbreviation of the term High Impedance (Impedance of 5000 or more ohms).
Close Micing
A technique of placing a microphone close to the sound source (within one foot) in order to pick up mainly the direct sound and to avoid picking up leakage or ambience.
Flat
1) Lower in musical pitch.
2) A slang term used to describe the sensitivity to frequency of a microphone, amplifier, etc., as being even at all frequencies, usually within 2 dB.
3) Refers to the frequencies on the EQ when they are arranged in centred neutral positions.
Joystick
1) A quad pan pot which distributes what percentage of on signal is sent to each of 4 outputs.
2) A control that is separately controlling two functions at one time.
Wednesday, May 5, 2021
Brooks KS-55 Automation
In consoles, a feature that lets the engineer program control changes (such as fader level) so that upon playback of the multitrack recording these changes happen automatically.
Level
Sets output volume of individual PA input channels. Usually positioned as sliders at the bottom of the soundboard.
Brooks M 44 Bandwidth
1) The range of frequencies over which a tape recorder, amplifier or other audio device is useful. 2) The range of frequencies affected by an equalization setting.
Capacitance
The property of being able to oppose a change in voltage or store an electrical charge.
Brooks XB 22 Feed
To send an audio or control signal to.
Impedance
1) A term for the electrical resistance found in a/c circuits. Affects the ability of a cable to transmit low level (e.g. sound) signals over a long distance. Measured in Ohms. Speakers are rated according to power handling capabilities (Watts, W) and impedance (Ohms).
2) The total opposition offered by an electric circuit to the flow of an alternating current of a single frequency. It is a combination of resistance and reactance and is measured in ohms. Remember that a speaker's impedance changes with frequency, it is not a constant value.
3) The opposition to alternating current.
Charge
The electrical energy of electrons. The energy is in the form of a force that is considered negative and repels other like forces (other electrons) and attracts opposite (positive) forces.
Electric Instrument
Any musical instrument that puts out an electrical signal rather than an acoustic sound.
Level
Sets output volume of individual PA input channels. Usually positioned as sliders at the bottom of the soundboard.
Brooks M 44 Bandwidth
1) The range of frequencies over which a tape recorder, amplifier or other audio device is useful. 2) The range of frequencies affected by an equalization setting.
Capacitance
The property of being able to oppose a change in voltage or store an electrical charge.
Brooks XB 22 Feed
To send an audio or control signal to.
Impedance
1) A term for the electrical resistance found in a/c circuits. Affects the ability of a cable to transmit low level (e.g. sound) signals over a long distance. Measured in Ohms. Speakers are rated according to power handling capabilities (Watts, W) and impedance (Ohms).
2) The total opposition offered by an electric circuit to the flow of an alternating current of a single frequency. It is a combination of resistance and reactance and is measured in ohms. Remember that a speaker's impedance changes with frequency, it is not a constant value.
3) The opposition to alternating current.
Charge
The electrical energy of electrons. The energy is in the form of a force that is considered negative and repels other like forces (other electrons) and attracts opposite (positive) forces.
Electric Instrument
Any musical instrument that puts out an electrical signal rather than an acoustic sound.
Tuesday, May 4, 2021
Brooks RM 80 Horn
1) The part of the speaker that emits midrange and higher range frequencies.
2) A speaker or speaker enclosure where sound waves are put into a narrow opening (by a speaker cone or driver) and the narrow opening flairs out to a larger opening.
Haas Effect
Simply stated, a factor in human hearing where delay has a much bigger effect on human perception of direction than level does.
Brooks Cinema XR 607 Isolation Booth/ Isolation Room
A room that prevents loud sounds from other instruments from leaking in: an isolation booth is usually a smaller room that could be used for only one musician.
Echo Send
The output of a console used to send a signal to an echo chamber or delay effects device.
Brooks Cinema xm 808 ID
An index signal (digital data that gives the machine information of where selections start, their selection number, etc.) on a DAT or CD.
Folded Horn
A speaker design where the speaker points back into the cabinet and bounces around finally coming out large ports in the front. It is intended to maximize low frequencies in a relatively small cabinet.
Group
1) A number of channels or faders that can be controlled by one Master VCA slide.
2) A shortening of the term Recording Group (a buss or the signal present on a buss).
Echo Return
An input of the console, which brings back the echo (reverberation) signal from the echo chamber or other echo effects device.
2) A speaker or speaker enclosure where sound waves are put into a narrow opening (by a speaker cone or driver) and the narrow opening flairs out to a larger opening.
Haas Effect
Simply stated, a factor in human hearing where delay has a much bigger effect on human perception of direction than level does.
Brooks Cinema XR 607 Isolation Booth/ Isolation Room
A room that prevents loud sounds from other instruments from leaking in: an isolation booth is usually a smaller room that could be used for only one musician.
Echo Send
The output of a console used to send a signal to an echo chamber or delay effects device.
Brooks Cinema xm 808 ID
An index signal (digital data that gives the machine information of where selections start, their selection number, etc.) on a DAT or CD.
Folded Horn
A speaker design where the speaker points back into the cabinet and bounces around finally coming out large ports in the front. It is intended to maximize low frequencies in a relatively small cabinet.
Group
1) A number of channels or faders that can be controlled by one Master VCA slide.
2) A shortening of the term Recording Group (a buss or the signal present on a buss).
Echo Return
An input of the console, which brings back the echo (reverberation) signal from the echo chamber or other echo effects device.
Monday, May 3, 2021
Brooks Cinema RM 909 Bar
A term meaning the same thing as the term Measure (the grouping of a number of beats in music, most-often four beats).
Editing
1) Changing the sequence of a recording by cutting the recording tape and putting the pieces together in the new sequence with splicing tape.
2) Punching in and then punching out on one or more tracks of a multitrack tape recorder to replace previously recorded performances.
3) Changing the sequence of a digital recording's playback by computer program.
Brooks SS 81 Floor
1) An alternate tam meaning Range (a limit on the amount the signal is reduced when the input signal is low by an expander or gate).
2) A shortening of the term Noise Floor (the level of the noise).
Amp
1) An abbreviation of the term Amplifier (A device which increases the level of an electrical signal.
2) An abbreviation of Ampere (the unit of current).
3) An abbreviation of amplitude (the height of a waveform above or below the zero line).
Brooks GT 44 Frequency Range
The range of frequencies over which an electronic device is useful or over which a sound source will put out substantial energy.
Crossover, Passive
Used inside of full range speaker cabinets to separate highs, mids, and lows and send them to their respective speakers within the each cabinet. These are not as efficient as active crossovers because they require all frequencies to draw from the same source of amplification.
Full
A quality of the sound of having all frequencies present, especially the low frequencies.
Cycles Per Second
A unit used in the measure of frequency, equivalent to Hertz. Cycles Per Second is an outdated term replaced by Hertz in 1948.
Editing
1) Changing the sequence of a recording by cutting the recording tape and putting the pieces together in the new sequence with splicing tape.
2) Punching in and then punching out on one or more tracks of a multitrack tape recorder to replace previously recorded performances.
3) Changing the sequence of a digital recording's playback by computer program.
Brooks SS 81 Floor
1) An alternate tam meaning Range (a limit on the amount the signal is reduced when the input signal is low by an expander or gate).
2) A shortening of the term Noise Floor (the level of the noise).
Amp
1) An abbreviation of the term Amplifier (A device which increases the level of an electrical signal.
2) An abbreviation of Ampere (the unit of current).
3) An abbreviation of amplitude (the height of a waveform above or below the zero line).
Brooks GT 44 Frequency Range
The range of frequencies over which an electronic device is useful or over which a sound source will put out substantial energy.
Crossover, Passive
Used inside of full range speaker cabinets to separate highs, mids, and lows and send them to their respective speakers within the each cabinet. These are not as efficient as active crossovers because they require all frequencies to draw from the same source of amplification.
Full
A quality of the sound of having all frequencies present, especially the low frequencies.
Cycles Per Second
A unit used in the measure of frequency, equivalent to Hertz. Cycles Per Second is an outdated term replaced by Hertz in 1948.
Sunday, May 2, 2021
Brooks SS 81 Bank
1) A collection of sound patches (data as to the sequence and operating parameters of the synthesizer generators and modifiers) in memory.
2) A group of sound modules as a unit.
LED
A light that allows current to flow in one direction only and emits light whenever a voltage of a certain level or beyond is applied to it.
Brooks Cinema Projectors Frequency Response
How sensitive an electronic device (mic, amplifier, speaker, etc.) is to various frequencies; often communicated with a graph.
Absorption
Short for the term Acoustical Absorption (quality of a surface or substance to take in, not reflect, a sound wave).
Brooks Cinema NZ 60 Frequency
The number of cycles of a waveform occurring in a second.
Boom
1) A hand-held, telescoping pole used to hold the microphone in recording dialogue in film production.
2) A telescoping support arm that is attached to a microphone stand and which holds the microphone. 3) Loosely, a boomstand.
Head
1) In tape recording, the transducer (energy converter) that changes the audio energy from electrical energy to magnetic energy and back; also the devices that apply magnetism to the recording tape for other purposes such as in the erase head.
2) The part of a device that immediately includes the transducer to change sound or audio signals from one energy form to another.
Amplifier
A device which increases the amplitude (level) of an electrical signal (making it louder).
2) A group of sound modules as a unit.
LED
A light that allows current to flow in one direction only and emits light whenever a voltage of a certain level or beyond is applied to it.
Brooks Cinema Projectors Frequency Response
How sensitive an electronic device (mic, amplifier, speaker, etc.) is to various frequencies; often communicated with a graph.
Absorption
Short for the term Acoustical Absorption (quality of a surface or substance to take in, not reflect, a sound wave).
Brooks Cinema NZ 60 Frequency
The number of cycles of a waveform occurring in a second.
Boom
1) A hand-held, telescoping pole used to hold the microphone in recording dialogue in film production.
2) A telescoping support arm that is attached to a microphone stand and which holds the microphone. 3) Loosely, a boomstand.
Head
1) In tape recording, the transducer (energy converter) that changes the audio energy from electrical energy to magnetic energy and back; also the devices that apply magnetism to the recording tape for other purposes such as in the erase head.
2) The part of a device that immediately includes the transducer to change sound or audio signals from one energy form to another.
Amplifier
A device which increases the amplitude (level) of an electrical signal (making it louder).
Saturday, May 1, 2021
Brooks QS 70 Capacitance
That property of a capacitor which determines how much charge can be stored in it for a given potential difference between its terminals, measured in farads, by the ratio of the charge stored to the potential difference.
CD-ROM
An abbreviation of the term Compact Disc, Read Only Memory (A Compact Disc used to store digital data, such as large programs, that can be read by a computer).
Brooks KM 77 Echo
1) One distinct repeat of a sound because of the sound reflecting off a surface.
2) Loosely, used to mean reverberation (the continuing of a sound after the source stops emitting it, caused by many discrete echoes closely spaced in time).
Formant
An element in the sound of a voice or instrument that does not change frequency as different pitches are sounded.
Brooks Cinema ZL 44 Electric Instrument
Any musical instrument that puts out an electrical signal rather than an acoustic sound.
Electromagnetic Field
Magnetic energy put out because of current travelling through a conductor.
Chase
The automatic adjusting of the speed of a recorder (or sequencer) to be time with another recorder.
Cycle
1) An alternation of a waveform which begins at a point, passes through the zero line, and ends at a point with the same value and moving in the same direction as the starting point.
2) On a Solid State Logic Console, a command to have the console computer control the tape machine to play and replay a certain section of the tape.
CD-ROM
An abbreviation of the term Compact Disc, Read Only Memory (A Compact Disc used to store digital data, such as large programs, that can be read by a computer).
Brooks KM 77 Echo
1) One distinct repeat of a sound because of the sound reflecting off a surface.
2) Loosely, used to mean reverberation (the continuing of a sound after the source stops emitting it, caused by many discrete echoes closely spaced in time).
Formant
An element in the sound of a voice or instrument that does not change frequency as different pitches are sounded.
Brooks Cinema ZL 44 Electric Instrument
Any musical instrument that puts out an electrical signal rather than an acoustic sound.
Electromagnetic Field
Magnetic energy put out because of current travelling through a conductor.
Chase
The automatic adjusting of the speed of a recorder (or sequencer) to be time with another recorder.
Cycle
1) An alternation of a waveform which begins at a point, passes through the zero line, and ends at a point with the same value and moving in the same direction as the starting point.
2) On a Solid State Logic Console, a command to have the console computer control the tape machine to play and replay a certain section of the tape.
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